9/13/13
I make it a point to suggest things to my clients that have benefitted me. Ghandi’s ‘Be the change that you want to see in the world’ (rather than talking about it) makes a lot of sense to me.
When I noticed that I was recommending Victor Davich’s intro to meditation, 8 Minute Meditation, to more than a few clients, I also realized it’s been several years since I actually did his program. And then I realized I never completely finished it!!! (I often recommend this particular program because it’s simple and offers a breadth of meditation experiences, 8 to be exact. Don’t look for lofty prose and be prepared for repetition.)
I’ve replaced my normal meditation regimen and for 56 days I’m doing his program as outlined—partly just to prove to myself I can finish it, and partly to be able to personally attest to its benefits. As we speak I’m on day 30 (of his suggested 56 day program). Already I’m replacing a hidden belief that I’m incapable of consistency…I’ve done it for 30 days!!!
My point isn’t to recommend a particular person, or program, or approach. I’ve mentioned other approaches in past blogs and will continue to do so in the future. My intention is simply to encourage you to experience the benefits of meditation and mindfulness practices in whatever ways resonate with you.
Do you have a meditation regimen that works for you? Or have you tried this one? Please leave a comment—we’d love to hear what has worked for you.
Another great Seedling! I like how you share things that work for you and it was cool you were in the midst of the meditation days yourself. 🙂 Thanks, Vicki
Thanks for the kind words. So far so good! Robyn
I find a place that is conducive to my mind settling itself into a quiet place. This, I have found, is different than finding a quiet place to meditiate. Although the immediate environment may contribute to the meditation, I find I can meditate anywhere, depending on the state of my mind in the first place.
This varies due to my emotional state, or my conscious awareness of a spiritual connection.
I seldom place a time limit, but when particularly stressed, or stuck, or not feeling the mood to meditate, but knowing the benefit I would receive, I will sit or stand and let my mind empty itself for a few minutes.
Yes, I think it’s exactly as you suggest Dick. That we can meditate anywhere, any time, and the difference is not in whether or not we’re meditating–we are if we’ve set an intention to focus on the present moment with acceptance and openness and curiosity. The difference is simply in our subjective experience of the quality or benefit or outcome of the meditation experience! Robyn
Interesting! You recommended this book to me and I have given to others as a gift. Hpwever, after reading your blog I realized I never did all the weeks either. So my plan is to give it a try also.
My big aha was how easily I delude myself about what I think I do vs. what I really do. I really thought I’d finished the program until I sat back and thought about it. Now I’m on Day 31 🙂 Robyn
Meditating is a bit intimidating to me, but this suggestion from you has me wondering if this program would be a good starting place? 8 minutes a day…I can totally do that! 🙂
I know! That’s exactly what I thought! It takes the woo woo out of it 🙂 Robyn